The water is dropping quickly, and the hot temperatures have driven the water temperature in the Big Hole up.
FWP has announced that Hoot-owl restrictions will go into place effective today, June 30:
Saginaw Bridge on Skinner Meadows Road to the Mouth of the North Fork Big Hole River
It is anticipated that the following restrictions will start tomorrow, July 1:
Section 2: North Fork of Big Hole to Dickie Bridge
Section 5: Notch Bottom FAS to confluence with the Beaverhead.
Additionally, Section 4 (Maiden Rock to Notch Bottom) will possibly go to Hoot owl starting on Saturday, July 2.
Check the FWP Website for up to date information: http://fwp.mt.gov/news/restrictions/waterClosure.html
What are Hoot-owl restrictions?
Hoot owl restricts fishing from 2 PM to Midnight. People can still float after 2 PM, but do not fish. High water temperatures stress the fish, and catching them during the heat of the day can be even more harmful to them.